TL;DR
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are versatile in-ear headphones that nail gaming, music, and daily use with a comfortable, IP55-rated design. They boast impressive multi-device switching between PS5, PC, and mobile, a user-friendly app for sound customization, and a solid 10-hour battery life (40 with the case). While Active Noise Cancellation is effective, it doesn't fully block extreme noise, and PS5 volume could be higher for competitive gaming. Still, for their seamless experience and overall audio quality, they're a strong contender. Ready to dive deeper into what makes these earbuds tick? Read the full review!
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds present a compelling option for gamers seeking in-ear headphones that excel across various activities, from gaming and music listening to outdoor walks with engaging audio content. These earbuds are compact, agile, and immediately convey a design optimized for both gaming and daily use.
First Impression
The packaging is visually appealing and well-organized, establishing a positive first impression. SteelSeries streamlines the initial setup process with a QR code on the box, directing users to their app for adjusting settings, from over 100 sound profiles to ANC. The app itself is intuitively designed and responsive.
I first connected them to my mobile and then to the Playstation 5, and the connection process was seamless. A notable feature of these earbuds is their robust multi-device compatibility across PS5, PC, and mobile – allowing users to seamlessly switch between Bluetooth and the 2.4 GHz dongle without interruptions.
Design and Feel
The design is subtle and contemporary. They also provide a very comfortable in-ear fit. They are lightweight, stable, and remain comfortable even during extended usage. Furthermore, their IP55 rating makes them resistant to both sweat and light rain – ideal for active, on-the-go use.
The earbuds provided an equally comfortable fit for both myself and my partner. Typically, ear tip adjustments are necessary for an optimal fit when sharing headphones, but these required no such modifications, which is a significant advantage.
Sound and Features
The sound quality is impressive for their compact size. ANC effectively blocks out distracting ambient noise, and the transparency mode is ideal for maintaining situational awareness without removing the earbuds.
However, complete suppression of all background noise was not achieved in a home environment with significant high-frequency disturbances. While the ANC performs admirably, extreme noise levels can still be perceptible.
The maximum volume on PS5 was marginally lower than optimal. Even at maximum console volume, the output felt somewhat subdued, occasionally impacting the clarity of subtle audio cues like footsteps. Aside from this, the audio quality is excellent for both gaming and music playback.
A valuable feature is the ability to easily customize sound profiles within the app based on the specific game being played. I’ve tested the headphones in Battlefield 6 and Warzone, and the adapted profiles significantly enhanced the audio experience.
Battery Life
The battery life of 10 hours is impressive for earbuds that simultaneously utilize ANC and various gaming features. With the charging case, total usage extends up to 40 hours, providing ample power for extended gaming sessions or mobile use without interruption. By comparison, Anker SoundCore Liberty only offers approximately 7 hours on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the case, positioning these headphones with a distinct advantage in battery longevity.
The charging case offers rapid recharging and supports wireless Qi charging. The ANC system relies on multiple microphones working together to suppress ambient noise, and although noise cancellation typically drains more battery, the earbuds are highly optimized. This optimization results in extended playtime without compromising on feature functionality.
They also utilize neodymium drivers, which contribute to powerful audio output while maintaining efficient power consumption. In summary, these earbuds offer extended playtime, rapid charging, and intelligent energy management.
Summary
The Arctis GameBuds are a highly capable pair of headphones for users seeking versatile performance across various environments – at home, during commutes, at the gym, and during gaming. They offer intuitive operation, excellent sound quality, and a comprehensive feature set. While the maximum volume on PS5 could benefit from an increase, the overall experience is a well-engineered, seamless, and dependable package.
SteelSeries provided review units for this test. Senders of material have no editorial influence on our tests; we always write independently with our readers and consumers in focus.
